Jena Irene of Farmington Hills makes it to ‘Idol’ final four; West Bloomfield native voted off
America selected the songs for the “Idols” this week, and Jena Irene of Farmington Hills performed her way into the final four in the “American Idol” competition.
Sam Woolf, who was raised in West Bloomfield, but now lives in Bradenton, Fla, received the fewest number of votes and left the program.
In an “Idol” program twist, the five finalists were given an opportunity to keep all contestants safe this week and send two people home next week, but the vote had to be unanimous. The vote was split, 3 to 2, which appeared to shock the judges. Woolf sang one last time for America, and his photo went dark.
As the program heads toward the May 21 finale when a new “American Idol” is named, the contenders are being asked to do more. This week each finalist performed three songs, two chosen by fans across America and a third for fun, sung with fellow contestants. The five remaining singers welcomed sage advice from their coach of the week, singer Jason Mraz, who told Irene “she sparkles like a toothpaste commercial.” Mraz urged Irene to look up and engage the audience with her eyes and have a good time. She took his advice, and the eyes have it.
Working the stage as she sang “My Body” by Young the Giant, Irene connected with the audience, touching hands and unleashing her huge voice. Judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr. approved, offering praise.
“Your style is emerging,” said Lopez. “You have signature moves that will define you as an artist.”
Keith Urban called the performance “killer” and Connick Jr. added that she looked like she’s having fun, unlike some of the other contestants.
Irene’s second song “Valerie” by Amy Winehouse, also chosen by fans, had the judges rocking in their seats. However, Lopez said that it was not Irene’s best performance because the song did not fit her style. Urban disagreed saying her vocals fit the song. Connick Jr. liked the performance, but was focused on her future stage name. Irene said she will be known as simply, “Jena.”
This week, the show producer wove extra performances into the two-hour program on Wednesday night. Showcasing a trio of contenders, Sam Woolf, Alex Preston and Jena Irene, the audience was on its feet, clapping and screaming approval for “Best Day Of My Life” by American Authors. Although the judges did not comment on any of the joint performances, all three wildly applauded with Lopez and Urban standing after the performance. Irene appeared to be the most comfortable on stage, smiling and taking command of the song.
In order to vote for Jena Irene call 1-855-4-IDOL-08 or vote online at www.americanidol.com/vote.
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